Effectiveness and safety of percutaneous coronary intervention after fibrinolytic therapy for ST-segment elevation

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Suzanne J Baron1, Robert P Giugliano

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.

The American Journal of Cardiology
|January 25, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Restoring blood flow quickly is key for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients. This review examines routine angioplasty after clot-busting drugs to preserve heart function.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Interventional Cardiology

Background:

  • Acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) requires prompt restoration of myocardial blood flow.
  • Primary treatments include fibrinolytic therapy and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review published reports on systematic PCI after fibrinolysis for STEMI.
  • To discuss the rationale for this treatment strategy.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of published literature.
  • Analysis of treatment strategies for STEMI.

Main Results:

  • Debate exists regarding the optimal timing and necessity of subsequent PCI in patients treated with fibrinolysis.
  • The review synthesizes evidence on the benefits and drawbacks of this approach.

Conclusions:

  • The optimal management strategy for STEMI, particularly regarding routine PCI post-fibrinolysis, requires careful consideration.
  • Further discussion on the rationale behind this treatment strategy is warranted.

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